How to Select a Welding Program with Robotics Courses

Community colleges, technical colleges and universities across the U.S. offer diploma, certificate, associate and bachelor's programs in welding technology with courses in robotics.

Summary of Important Considerations

Up-to-date machinery

School laboratories and partnerships

Specialized training options

Up-to-Date Machinery

Automated welding processes are becoming more widely used in the manufacturing industry, and workers are becoming responsible for programming the machines. Due to the changing nature of technology, students comfortable with using the most up-to-date, automated welding machinery may have better employment prospects. It's important that schools have up-to-date welding technology tools.

School Laboratories and Partnerships

Many welding programs have laboratories where students can gain hands-on training by working with standard industry equipment. Prospective students might look for schools that have partnerships with manufacturing companies since these companies may provide new equipment and offer internship opportunities. Additionally, some schools may host conferences that involve training on the newest techniques and technology.

Specialized Training Options

Those interested in earning an associate degree in welding technology can find degree programs that incorporate multiple certificates into the curricula. Students can earn certification in pipe welding, structural and advanced processes, which may include the use of robotic welding. For additional specialized training, students may consider the elective courses offered through associate and bachelor's programs, such as quality testing, metallurgy or workplace communication.

Welding Technology Program Overviews

Diploma and Certificate Programs

Welding technology diploma and certificate programs require around 30 credit hours to complete, though certification programs may be shorter due to the specialized content. After completing a diploma program, students may sit for a certification exam issued by the American Welding Society (AWS). Though programs can differ based on elective courses offered, welding technology programs typically offer courses in:

Fabrication

Blueprint reading

Welding techniques

Associate Degree Programs

Aspiring robotic welders may consider taking courses in technology and computer literacy to fulfill the general education requirements of an associate degree. They could also take elective courses in robotic welding if available. Students enrolled in an associate degree program can expect to study:

Safety practices

Technical math

Welding processes

In some cases, associate degree courses may be applied to a bachelor's degree in welding engineering. Internship opportunities may be available.

Bachelor's Degree Programs

In Bachelor of Science in Welding Engineering Technology programs, students learn to lead projects, solve manufacturing problems and design welding equipment. In addition to learning welding techniques, topics include:

Welding inspection

Welding power sources

Metallurgy

Programs may offer specific courses in robotic welding in which students operate and study the applications of robotic technology. Some programs require that students complete a senior project and/or internship.